London lifestyle: Quaint and cosy living in Muswell Hill, North London

Though this north London ’hood is a good 15 minutes’ walk from the nearest Tube stop, the myriad bus routes, chilled village feel, pretty, neighbouring Highate Wood and cheap rents more than make up for it.

So the super-hip might not flock here and you’re in Zone 3. But Muswell Hill is filled with stunning and unique architecture, and is close to some of the city’s nicest nabes (think Hampstead and Highgate).

Why Muswell Hill?

Muswell Hill has eschewed new-builds for nearly a century. As a result, most of the buildings are Edwardian and Victorian, with a few Art Deco models thrown in for good measure. The result is a treasure trove of flats fitted with architectural wonders.

“There have been instances of people pulling up carpeting and finding original wooden flooring underneath,” says lettings manager Euan Williams, of Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward.

In many ways, Muswell Hill feels like a ‘hood plucked from another era.

“People find it strange that folks know one another, and speak to their next door neighbours, and even leave their keys with them if they’re going out of town,” he adds.

Who lives there?One of Muswell Hill’s major landmarks is Alexandra Palace, aka Ally Pally, the original headquarters for the BBC.

Though the TV service no longer operates out of here (it now hosts major events such as world darts and snooker championships), the area still attracts plenty in the TV business, including actors and producers.

Artists and crafting types have also converted some of the older garage spaces into gift shops and antique boutiques, many of which line the cutely cobbled Avenue Mews. “I’d say we attract quite a high-end calibre,” says Williams.

The connections

Unfortunately, the neighbourhood’s one major drawback is its transport connections.

The closest Tube stops – East Finchley, Highgate and Bounds Green – are all about a 15-minute walk away.

Several buses service the area, though, including the 43, 134 and W7, going to London Bridge, Camden and Finsbury Park respectively. Don’t move here if...You hate a long commute.

Though the lack of transportation options mean better rent and a greater sense of community, it can also mean a trek to much of the city.

“I’d say if you’re looking to be a few minutes out from the hustle and bustle of central London, you don’t want to be in Muswell Hill,” Williams concedes.